Nostalgia

I loved being pregnant. Fortunately, I really had an easy pregnancy. Well, I guess there was that sudden loss of hearing at 36 weeks, but other than that, smooth sailing! I probably also have such fond memories due to the fact that I delivered at 38 weeks. At 37 weeks and 6 days I was saying, “Gee – I could be 37 weeks pregnant forever. I feel great!” At 38 weeks and 0 days, I was starting to understand why people complained about the end of their pregnancies. I guess the Girl knew and was trying to be nice – she was born only hours later!

I miss the rolling belly and the random jabs and kicks. It is so much more fun to have the real live baby, but there is just something so amazing about being entrusted to carry that little life around for a while.

Because the Girl arrived a bit unexpectedly, I didn’t have all the “lasts”. The last belly picture, the last night out with friends, the last date night as a solo couple. I would recommend squeezing those things in if you can!

A mental exercise for remembering those months …

I’m late. I’m crampy – surely my period will come soon. I’m late. That cilantro smells weird. I couldn’t be pregnant. I’m pregnant? I’m pregnant! Erik – I’m pregnant. WHAT? HOW? I think you know how. Elation. Fear. OCD. Big secret to keep. Quease. Lemon drops. Gingerale. Gingersnaps. Pringles. DO NOT let me gain more than 25 pounds. OH MY GOD, THE HUNGER. Beautiful nuchal fold. Cooperative little fetus. Sesame seed, lentil, blueberry, olive, kumquat – this thing gets to be the size of a watermelon? Guess what, we’re having a baby! More elation. Ugh- maternity clothes. Oooh – maternity pants! Mango Dango. Wedding Cake cookie. It’s a GIRL! Research, research, research. Registering. I’m eating whatever I want – I don’t care. Lovely showers, lovelier friends. Raisin bran and cinnamon raisin toast. Everyday. New paint, new furniture. Your feet get fat? My belly button looks like this on the inside? Lots of ultrasounds – chubby baby. Clean out the pantry, basement and every closet. I need bigger maternity clothes? Recover furniture. Feather the nest. Her heart rate is dropping. You are having your baby today. Seriously? Seriously! I can’t have a baby – my bag isn’t packed. Time for a c-section. My husband is getting lunch! Stay calm … everything is under control. Here she comes! WAAAH! (the best sound ever) Is she OK? Beautiful baby. Joy, tears, a new beginning …